My Black Inheritance

27

"Forgive me child," a voice screamed out, echoing through the hallways of the empty house. "I never meant to hurt you, it was my own foolishness that caused this pain." Tears streamed down the voice's face as they knelt before the child, desperate for redemption.

The child, who had been standing motionless since the voice had started speaking, now looked speechless. Their eyes were wide with shock, confusion, and disbelief. They could not find the words to express the emotions that were swirling within them. All they could do was stand there, and listen to the voice that had caused them so much pain. . . .

-

"Estelle, it is time to wake up," Marina repeated, knocking my door.

"Come on, Estelle! You don't want to be late to meeting the Queen," Marina said, her voice becoming more urgent as she knocked on my door again.

I groaned and opened my eyes, realizing I had overslept. Sliding out of bed, I quickly threw on my formal robe, determined to make up for the lost time.

I rushed to the bathroom and turned on the shower, letting the hot water stream over my body and help wake me up.

As I stood in the shower, I felt the warmth of the water soothing my tired body and the steam clearing my foggy mind. I could feel my exhaustion slowly melting away as I washed away the night's sleep and readied myself for the day ahead.

I knew I had to hurry, but I also wanted to take a moment to appreciate the sensation of hot water running down my skin and the smell of the steam rising around me.

I grabbed a washcloth and some soap and started scrubbing my body, making sure to clean every inch of my skin. I paid special attention to my face, neck, and arms, making sure to get rid of any dirt or sweat from the night before.

Wrapping the towel around my body, I stepped out of the shower and grabbed a second towel to dry my hair.

I combed through my hair with my fingers, making sure to get rid of any knots. I put on a bit of my favorite conditioner and brushed my hair until it was shiny and smooth.

I carefully gathered my hair in my hands and twisted it until it formed a neat bun at the nape of my neck. I secured it with a few bobby pins and smiled at my reflection in the mirror. I was pleased with how my hair looked, and I was ready to face the day ahead.

I grabbed my toothbrush and toothpaste and brushed my teeth vigorously, wanting to make sure my breath was fresh and my teeth were sparkling clean. I finished brushing and rinsed my mouth with water.

"Estelle, are you ready? I've already picked your dress," Marina asked, "It's in front of the dresser,"

I thanked her and walked over to the dresser, where a stunning blue gown had been laid out for me. I carefully slipped it on and admired my reflection in the mirror.

The dress fit me perfectly and it just needed someone to tie the strings in the back, which is usually how most of my dresses are made. I was pleased with the fit, and I could tell that the dress was going to look amazing.

I said. "You can come in."

I grabbed a bottle of moisturizer from my dresser and applied it to my skin, making sure to massage it in until it was completely absorbed.

I followed this with a light layer of foundation and a few dabs of concealer under my eyes. I completed the look with a few coats of mascara and a light pink lip gloss.

I glanced in the mirror and smiled at my reflection, feeling confident and ready for the day.

Meanwhile, Marina came in and helped me tie the strings to the back of the dress. She admired it and commented that it fitted me perfectly.